When Love Comes Late
Chapter 2266

With a bitter smile and composed resolve, she responded, “I have the right to choose my friends.

Sanford is a business associate.

Our interactions are professional and transparent.

Why should I be forbidden from speaking to him?”

As Stella remained unmoved by either persuasion or pressure, Matthew’s frown deepened, a flicker of anger shadowing his expression.

But Stella, unfazed, continued, “Lindsay saved your life.

Whenever she’s unwell, you rush to her side.

Have I ever objected? Can’t you see it from my perspective?”

A slight change flickered in Matthew’s expression, his frown deepening.

“That’s different.”

Finding his response increasingly absurd, Stella scoffed and demanded, “What makes it any different? Aren’t you and Lindsay of the opposite sex? Haven’t you spent time alone with her? Haven’t you been with her behind closed doors when I wasn’t around?”

Matthew had no answer.

Stella exhaled, wiping her tears roughly, and spoke slowly, her words sharp and deliberate.

“So please, calm down.

The man you’ve become since losing your memory is a stranger to me.

This isn’t the Matthew I fell in love with.”

After speaking, Stella disregarded Matthew and returned to the table.

At the table, Bella and Sanford sat opposite each other, the air heavy with tension as they ate uneasily, occasionally exchanging awkward smiles.

Upon Stella’s return, Bella let out a sigh of relief, though her face fell when she noticed Stella was alone.

Stella quietly took her seat next to her mother, not saying much.

Sanford, seemingly anticipating that Matthew wouldn’t accompany Stella back, merely smiled at her and suggested, “Let’s eat before the food gets cold.”

Stella nodded slightly in acknowledgment.

Bella glanced at Stella, wanting to inquire about her conversation with Matthew but hesitated in Sanford’s presence.

Deciding it was inappropriate to ask in front of him, she chose to let the matter go.

Stella noticed her mother’s concern and offered a reassuring smile.

Mother and daughter exchanged a knowing look, their silent communication perfect.

The atmosphere at the table softened.

During the meal, Sanford engaged Stella in a conversation about work, discussing the upcoming brand launch event and important details to keep in mind.

Though the meal began with tension, it concluded smoothly without any major incidents.

After they finished, the trio left the restaurant together.

Anticipating that Sanford might offer to drive her home, Stella quickly interjected before he could speak, “You go ahead if you have things to do.

I’ll take my mom home first.”

Sanford understood and did not press further.

He simply nodded and cautioned, “Be safe on your way back.”

Stella gave a polite smile and took Bella by the arm.

Then, they both got into the car.